Coin and Paper Money Collecting/$50 star note

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Expert: Brad Swain - 1/26/2010


Question

1934-C Boston $50 Star
I have a raw Series 1934 C Boston Star note ($50).  Condition is VG.  Note is unique based on my research.  My dealer and I have looked through current U.S. Paper Money books and there is no listing anywhere to be found.  I've looked online with no success, either.  Questions are:  Is it truly unique, or am I missing something?  Value? Should I send it in to PMG?  Thank you!  

Answer
Hi John, Collector value of a note depends on date, series letter or signature and condition, including amount of wear, any folds, tears or stains as well as collector demand.
It may be worth about $75-$150 with wear.
Star note definition: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_note
When notes are discovered that have been printed incorrectly (such as having the serial numbers upside down, etc.) these misprinted notes (error notes) are replaced with star notes because no two bills can be produced with the same serial number.
Star notes may have extra value than regular notes depending on amount of wear and collector demand. They aren't usually listed separately from a regular note.
U.S. small size paper money values:
http://coinsite.com/html/uspapermoneyprices(sm).asp
and
http://www.bestcoin.com/U-S-Currency-FAQ-Values.htm
You might take it by a local coin shop for a first hand opinion: http://find.mapmuse.com/interest/coin_dealers
Brad

Brad Swain

Expertise

I have been a World Coin and Paper Money collector since about 1965. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have on World coins or currency, tokens, unusual or unknown pieces and attempt to give you estimates of value and historical information about them in a polite and prompt manner.

Experience

45 years collecting coins and paper money.

Education/Credentials
BA History, BA Geography - Virginia Tech

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